Summary
- Asia-Pacific mobile data traffic surged 350% between 2019 and 2024.
- Southeast Asian mobile operator emissions increased about 20% over the period.
- Renewables account for only 4% of operators’ electricity use in Southeast Asia and 5% in Malaysia.
- GSMA called for energy market reforms to expand clean electricity access.
KUALA LUMPUR, September 25 — Mobile operators across Asia-Pacific need greater access to renewable electricity to meet net-zero targets as demand for digital connectivity continues to grow.
A GSMA report found regional mobile data traffic rose 350% between 2019 and 2024, while operational emissions increased 6%. Southeast Asian operators recorded an emissions increase.
Of about 20%, with renewables accounting for only 4% of their electricity consumption and 5% in Malaysia. GSMA said governments should reform electricity markets, improve renewable energy procurement.
And modernise power grids to help operators cut emissions, control energy costs and build more resilient networks.
